Ring electronic device and operation method thereof

Abstract

A method for operating a ring electronic device according to one embodiment of the present invention may comprise an operation of monitoring a wearing state of the ring electronic device. The operation method may comprise an operation of checking a remaining battery level of the ring electronic device when the wearing state is changed. The operation method may comprise an operation of displaying the remaining battery level by adaptively blinking a light-emitting unit included in a PPG sensor of the ring electronic device.

Description

Ring electronic device and method of operation thereof

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a ring electronic device and a method of operating the same.

[0002] A ring-type wearable electronic device (hereinafter, “ring electronic device”) is an electronic device worn on a part of the user’s body (e.g., a finger) and capable of performing various functions. The ring electronic device utilizes at least one sensor to monitor the user’s health status (e.g., heart rate, sleep patterns, activity level, and / or stress level). The ring electronic device can track the user’s activity information (e.g., location, posture, and / or motion). The ring electronic device can be linked to other electronic devices and provide the user with notifications (e.g., calls, text messages, and / or emails) from the other devices. The ring electronic device can provide payment functionality through near field communication (NFC).

[0003] Ring electronic devices can be designed to be waterproof and wearable during exercise or daily life. They can also be shock-resistant to track the user's activity. Ring electronic devices can combine convenient and practical features to enhance the user's life and help promote healthy habits.

[0004] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0005] A method of operating a ring electronic device according to one embodiment may include an operation of monitoring a wearing state of the ring electronic device. The method may include an operation of checking a remaining battery level of the ring electronic device when the wearing state changes. The method may include an operation of displaying the remaining battery level by adaptively blinking a light emitting unit included in a PPG sensor of the ring electronic device.

[0006] A ring electronic device according to one embodiment may include a wireless communication circuit configured to transmit and receive wireless signals. The ring electronic device may include a processor operatively connected to the wireless communication circuit. The ring electronic device may include a memory storing instructions. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor, may cause the ring electronic device to monitor a wearing state of the ring electronic device. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor, may cause the ring electronic device to check a remaining battery level of the ring electronic device when the wearing state changes. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor, may cause the ring electronic device to display the remaining battery level by adaptively blinking a light emitting unit included in a PPG sensor of the ring electronic device.

[0007] A method of operating a ring electronic device according to one embodiment may include an operation of monitoring shaking information of the ring electronic device. The method may include an operation of checking a remaining battery level of the ring electronic device when shaking of the ring electronic device is detected. The method may include an operation of displaying the remaining battery level by adaptively blinking a light emitting unit included in a PPG sensor of the ring electronic device.

[0008] A ring electronic device according to one embodiment may include a wireless communication circuit configured to transmit and receive wireless signals. The ring electronic device may include a processor operatively connected to the wireless communication circuit. The ring electronic device may include a memory storing instructions. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor, may cause the ring electronic device to monitor shaking information of the ring electronic device. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor, may cause the ring electronic device to check a remaining battery level of the ring electronic device when shaking of the ring electronic device is detected. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor, may cause the ring electronic device to display the remaining battery level by adaptively blinking a light emitting unit included in a PPG sensor of the ring electronic device.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment, according to one embodiment.

[0010] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a ring electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0011] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a PPG sensor according to one embodiment.

[0012] FIGS. 4 and 5 are drawings for explaining an operating method of a ring electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining an operating method of a ring electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0014] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. In the description with reference to the attached drawings, identical components are assigned the same reference numerals regardless of the drawing numbers, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0015]

[0016] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment, according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device (101) within a network environment (100) according to one embodiment. Referring to FIG. 1, in the network environment (100), the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of the electronic device (104) and the server (108) via a network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0018] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or calculations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or calculations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or a secondary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor)) that can operate independently or together therewith. For example, if the electronic device (101) includes a main processor (121) and a secondary processor (123), the secondary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a specified function. The secondary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0019] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0020] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0021] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0022] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0023] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0024] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. In one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0025] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0026] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0027] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0028] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0029] A haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. In one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0030] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0031] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented, for example, as at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0032] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0033] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0034] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0035] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas by, for example, the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device through the selected at least one antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0036] In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0037] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0038] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0039]

[0040] FIG. 2 is a drawing for explaining the structure of a ring electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 2, according to one embodiment, a cross-sectional view (201) and a side perspective view (202) of a ring electronic device (200) (e.g., the electronic device (102) of FIG. 1) can be viewed. The ring electronic device (200) can be worn on a user's finger. The ring electronic device (200) can be a smart ring. The ring electronic device (200) can be designed in a shape with a hole in the center. The ring electronic device (200) can be formed of an outer part and an inner part. The outer part of the ring electronic device (200) can be implemented to withstand external impact and scratches. The outer part of the ring electronic device (200) can be implemented with a material capable of implementing design elements (e.g., titanium, stainless steel, and / or ceramic). The inner part of the ring electronic device (200) can be a part that comes into contact with a finger. The interior of the ring electronic device (200) may be implemented with the same material as the exterior or with a material for sensing (e.g., molding material, transparent plastic, glass, and / or metal material).

[0042] According to one embodiment, the ring electronic device (200) may include a communication circuit (210), an antenna (211), a processor (220), a memory (230), a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) substrate (240), a battery (250), a charging interface (251), a power management integrated circuit (PMIC) (252), an inertial sensor (260), a photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor (270), and a temperature sensor (280).

[0043] According to one embodiment, the communication circuit (210) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the ring electronic device (200) and an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1). The communication circuit (210) may support communication based on the established communication channel. The communication circuit (210) may support various communication methods (e.g., Bluetooth, BLE (Bluetooth Low Energy), ZigBee, ANT+, Wi-Fi, Cellular (LTE, 5G, 6G, NB-IoT), NFC (near field communication), RFID (radio-frequency identification), UWB (ultra wide band), and / or GNSS (global navigation satellite system)). The communication circuit (210) may operate independently from the processor (220), or may be implemented in an integrated form with the processor (220). The antenna (211) may be an antenna for wireless communication. The antenna (211) may be implemented as a single antenna or multiple antennas. The antenna (211) may also be implemented as part of the exterior of the ring electronic device (200).

[0044] According to one embodiment, the processor (220) can perform various data processing or calculations. The processor (220) can store commands or data received from other components (e.g., sensors (e.g., 260, 270, and / or 280) or communication circuits (210)) in the memory (230), process the commands or data stored in the memory (230), and store result data in the memory (230). According to one embodiment, the processor (220) can be implemented as a circuit (e.g., a processing circuit) such as a system on chip (SoC) or an integrated circuit (IC). The processor (220) can include one or more processors. For example, the processor (220) can include a combination of one or more processors such as a CPU, a GPU, an MPU, an AP, and a CP.

[0045] According to one embodiment, the processor (220) may include a main processor (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor. The processor (220) may be implemented in an integrated form with other components (e.g., sensors (e.g., 260, 270, and / or 280) and / or communication circuitry (210)).

[0046] According to one embodiment, the memory (230) may store various data used by at least one component of the ring electronic device (200) (e.g., the processor (220) and / or sensors (e.g., 260, 270, and / or 280)). The data may include, for example, software (e.g., a program). The data may include input data or output data for commands associated with the software.

[0047] According to one embodiment, the memory (230) may include one or more memories. The instructions stored in the memory (230) may be stored in a single memory. The instructions stored in the memory (230) may be divided and stored in a plurality of memories. The instructions stored in the memory (230) may be individually or collectively executed by the processor (220) to cause the ring electronic device (200) to perform and / or control the operations of the ring electronic device (200) described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 6. The instructions stored in the memory (230) may be individually or collectively executed by a plurality of processors to cause the ring electronic device (200) to perform and / or control the operations of the ring electronic device (200) described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 6.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the FPCB substrate (240) may be an electrical circuit substrate having flexible characteristics. Components (e.g., a processor (220), a memory (230), a sensor (e.g., 260, 270, and / or 280), and / or a battery (250)) may be disposed on the FPCB substrate (240). The components disposed on the FPCB substrate (240) may be electrically connected.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the battery (250) can store energy to power the ring electronic device (200). The battery (250) can be charged and discharged and can be formed of various materials (e.g., lithium ion, mercury, or dry cell). The battery (250) can be equipped with a flexible battery pack to be placed inside the ring electronic device (200). The charging interface (251) can support various charging methods (e.g., wired charging method and / or wireless charging method) of the ring electronic device (200). The PMIC (252) can manage the power of the ring electronic device (200). The PMIC (252) can appropriately distribute power to components (e.g., processor (220) or sensors (e.g., 260, 270, and / or 280)).

[0050] According to one embodiment, the inertial sensor (260) may be a sensor that detects the inertia of the ring electronic device (200). The inertial sensor (260) may include an acceleration sensor and / or a gyroscope sensor. The inertial sensor (260) may be implemented as a three-axis sensor, including a three-axis acceleration sensor. The inertial sensor (260) may be implemented as a six-axis sensor, including a three-axis acceleration sensor and a three-axis gyro sensor. The inertial sensor (260) may sense motion, gesture, impact, posture, and / or activity of the ring electronic device (200) (or a wearer of the ring electronic device (200)). The inertial sensor (260) may monitor shaking information of the ring electronic device (200). The ring electronic device (200) may include a location measurement circuit (e.g., a GPS circuit) (or a GSP sensor). Through a location measurement circuit (e.g., GPS circuit) (or GPS sensor), the ring electronic device (200) can obtain its own location information.

[0051] According to one embodiment, the PPG sensor (270) can irradiate light onto a living body (e.g., a wearer's body). The PPG sensor (270) can receive light that is absorbed, scattered, and / or reflected. The PPG sensor (270) can include an emitter (271), a light receiver (272), and a control unit (273). The PPG sensor (270) will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 3.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the temperature sensor (280) may be a sensor that measures the temperature of a living body or a component. The temperature sensor (280) may measure the temperature in a contact or non-contact manner. The temperature sensor (280) may store the measured temperature value in the memory (230). The temperature sensor (280) may transmit the measured temperature value to the processor (220), thereby allowing the processor (230) to estimate the skin temperature. The ring electronic device (200) may include a sensor that detects the user's finger (e.g., a sensor that detects whether the ring electronic device is worn).

[0053] According to one embodiment, the sensors (e.g., 260, 270, 280, and / or the wearing detection sensor) may be selectively activated depending on the operating mode of the ring electronic device (200). For example, in a mode (e.g., health tracking mode) in which the ring electronic device is worn on a user's finger to track health status and / or activity information of the user (e.g., the wearer of the ring electronic device (200)), all of the sensors (e.g., 260, 270, 280, and the wearing detection sensor) may be activated. For example, when the user's finger is not detected, at least some of the health sensors (e.g., 260, 270, and 280) may be deactivated and only the wearing detection sensor may be activated.

[0054]

[0055] FIG. 3 is a drawing for explaining a PPG sensor according to one embodiment.

[0056] Referring to FIG. 3, according to one embodiment, a photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor (270) may include emitters (271-1, 271-2, 272-3), a light receiving unit (272), and a control unit (273). The PPG sensor (270) may irradiate light onto a living body (e.g., a wearer's body) (e.g., a blood vessel) through the emitters (271-1, 271-2, 272-3). The emitters (271-1, 271-2, 272-3) may emit light of various bands. The emitter (271-1) may emit light of an infrared wavelength, the emitter (271-2) may emit green light of a visible light wavelength, and the emitter (271-3) may emit red light of a visible light wavelength. The light-emitting portion (271-1, 271-2, 272-3) can be implemented with various elements (e.g., LED (light-emitting diode), laser, or VCSEL (vertical cavity surface emitting laser).

[0057] According to one embodiment, the PPG sensor (270) can receive light absorbed, scattered, and / or reflected through a receiver (272). The receiver (272) can receive the result of the reflected or transmitted light. The receiver (272) can be implemented as a photodiode and / or a complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS)-based image sensor. The receiver (272) can convert the received light based on an analog to digital converter (ADC). The receiver (272) can store the result of converting the received light in a memory (e.g., the memory (230) of FIG. 2) or a sensor buffer (not shown).

[0058] According to one embodiment, the PPG sensor (270) can control the light emitting units (271-1, 271-2, 272-3) and the light receiving unit (272) through the control unit (273). The control unit (273) can process data (e.g., convert the received light and store the converted result in the memory (230)).

[0059]

[0060] FIGS. 4 and 5 are drawings for explaining an operating method of a ring electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 4, according to one embodiment, operations 410 to 432 may be performed sequentially, but are not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of each operation (410 to 432) may be changed, and each operation (410 to 432) may be performed alternatively or in parallel.

[0062] In operation 410, a ring electronic device according to one embodiment (e.g., the ring electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) may monitor a wearing state of the ring electronic device (200). As described above in FIG. 2, the wearing state of the ring electronic device (200) may be monitored based on a sensor that detects a user's finger (e.g., a wearing state detection sensor).

[0063] In operation 411, the ring electronic device (200) according to one embodiment can detect that the wearing state of the ring electronic device (200) is maintained (e.g., maintained wearing). The ring electronic device (200) can continue monitoring the wearing state. In operation 412, the ring electronic device (200) can detect a change in the wearing state of the ring electronic device (200) (e.g., unworn). Referring to FIG. 5, when the ring electronic device (200) detects a change in the wearing state (e.g., unworn) (e.g., 501), the ring electronic device (200) can adaptively blink a light emitting unit (e.g., 271 of FIG. 2) included in a photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor (e.g., 270 of FIG. 2).

[0064] In operation 420, the ring electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may first check the remaining battery level. The remaining battery level may be collected at a preset interval (e.g., every few milliseconds). The remaining battery level may be expressed as a percentage between 1 and 100.

[0065] In operation 421, the ring electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may compare a preset threshold value with a remaining battery level (e.g., N%). The ring electronic device (200) may determine whether the remaining battery level is lower than the preset threshold value.

[0066] In operation 431, the ring electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may blink a green light-emitting diode (LED) (e.g., 271-2 of FIG. 2) included in the PPG sensor (270) when the remaining battery level is above a threshold value. In operation 432, the ring electronic device (200) may blink a red LED (e.g., 271-3 of FIG. 2) included in the PPG sensor (270) when the remaining battery level is below the threshold value.

[0067] According to one embodiment, the ring electronic device (200) can blink the light emitting unit (271) based on the remaining battery level. When the remaining battery level (e.g., N%) is equal to or greater than a threshold value, the ring electronic device (200) can blink the green LED (271-2) a number of times (e.g., N times) corresponding to the remaining battery level. When the remaining battery level (e.g., N%) is less than the threshold value, the ring electronic device (200) can blink the red LED (271-3) a number of times (e.g., N-1 times) obtained by subtracting 1 from the remaining battery level.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the ring electronic device (200) can display the remaining battery level of the ring electronic device (200) without an outer display member. The ring electronic device (200) can display the remaining battery level based on the PPG sensor of the inner part (e.g., the part that comes into contact with the finger). The ring electronic device (200) can differentiate the number of blinks and the color of the blinking light of the light emitting part (e.g., the light emitting part of the PPG sensor) according to the remaining battery level. The ring electronic device (200) can intuitively indicate to the user whether charging is necessary. Even when the user is exercising, the ring electronic device (200) can enable the user to check the battery status of the ring electronic device (200) without an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1). The user can conveniently check the battery status even while wearing the ring electronic device (200).

[0069]

[0070] FIG. 6 is a drawing for explaining an operating method of a ring electronic device according to one embodiment.

[0071] Referring to FIG. 6, according to one embodiment, operations 610 to 632 may be performed sequentially, but are not necessarily performed sequentially. For example, the order of each operation (610 to 632) may be changed, and each operation (610 to 632) may be performed alternatively or in parallel.

[0072] In operation 610, a ring electronic device (e.g., the ring electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) according to one embodiment may monitor shaking information (e.g., left-right shaking) of the ring electronic device (200). The shaking information of the electronic device (200) may be monitored based on an inertial sensor (e.g., the inertial sensor (260) of FIG. 2).

[0073] In operation 620, the ring electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may check the remaining battery level when shaking of the ring electronic device (200) is detected. The remaining battery level may be collected at a preset cycle (e.g., every few milliseconds). The remaining battery level may be expressed as a percentage between 1 and 100.

[0074] In operation 621, the ring electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may compare a preset threshold value with a remaining battery level (e.g., N%). The ring electronic device (200) may determine whether the remaining battery level is lower than the preset threshold value.

[0075] In operation 631, the ring electronic device (200) according to one embodiment may blink a green light-emitting diode (LED) (e.g., 271-2 of FIG. 2) included in a photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor (e.g., 270 of FIG. 2) when the remaining battery level is above a threshold value. In operation 632, the ring electronic device (200) may blink a red LED (e.g., 271-3 of FIG. 2) included in the PPG sensor (270) when the remaining battery level is below the threshold value.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the ring electronic device (200) can blink the light emitting unit (271) based on the remaining battery level. When the remaining battery level (e.g., N%) is equal to or greater than a threshold value, the ring electronic device (200) can blink the green LED (271-2) a number of times (e.g., N times) corresponding to the remaining battery level. When the remaining battery level (e.g., N%) is less than the threshold value, the ring electronic device (200) can blink the red LED (271-3) a number of times (e.g., N-1 times) obtained by subtracting 1 from the remaining battery level.

[0077] In one embodiment, the ring electronic device (200) may display the remaining battery level when it detects left-right shaking while the ring electronic device (200) is removed. The ring electronic device (200) may enable a user to check the battery status without an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1).

[0078] According to one embodiment, the ring electronic device (200) can display the remaining battery level of the ring electronic device (200) without an external display member. The ring electronic device (200) can display the remaining battery level based on an internal PPG sensor. The ring electronic device (200) can differentiate the number of blinks and the color of the blinking light of a light emitting unit (e.g., a light emitting unit of a PPG sensor) depending on the remaining battery level. The ring electronic device (200) can intuitively indicate to the user whether charging is necessary.

[0079]

[0080] A method of operating a ring electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102) of FIG. 1, ring electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) according to one embodiment may include an operation of monitoring a wearing state of the ring electronic device. The method may include an operation of checking a remaining battery level of the ring electronic device when the wearing state is changed. The method may include an operation of displaying the remaining battery level by adaptively blinking a light emitting unit (e.g., light emitting unit (271) of FIG. 2) included in a PPG sensor (e.g., PPG sensor (270) of FIG. 2) of the ring electronic device.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the operation of displaying the remaining battery level may include an operation of adaptively blinking a light emitting unit included in the PPG sensor by comparing the remaining battery level with a preset threshold value.

[0082] According to one embodiment, the operation of displaying the remaining battery level may include an operation of blinking a green LED (e.g., 271-2 of FIG. 2) included in the PPG sensor when the remaining battery level is equal to or greater than the threshold value. When the remaining battery level is equal to or less than the threshold value, the operation may include blinking a red LED (e.g., 271-3 of FIG. 2) included in the PPG sensor.

[0083] In one embodiment, the number of flashes of the light emitting portion may be based on the remaining battery level.

[0084] In one embodiment, the operation of blinking the green LED may include an operation of blinking the green LED a number of times corresponding to the remaining battery level when the remaining battery level is equal to or greater than the threshold value. The operation of blinking the red LED may include an operation of blinking the red LED a number of times equal to the remaining battery level minus 1 when the remaining battery level is less than the threshold value.

[0085] In one embodiment, the remaining battery level may be collected at a preset cycle.

[0086] A method of operating a ring electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102) of FIG. 1, ring electronic device (200) of FIG. 2) according to one embodiment may include an operation of monitoring shaking information of the ring electronic device. The method may include an operation of checking a remaining battery level of the ring electronic device when shaking of the ring electronic device is detected. The method may include an operation of displaying the remaining battery level by adaptively blinking a light emitting unit (e.g., light emitting unit (271) of FIG. 2) included in a PPG sensor (e.g., PPG sensor (270) of FIG. 2) of the ring electronic device.

[0087] According to one embodiment, the operation of displaying the remaining battery level may include an operation of adaptively blinking a light emitting unit included in the PPG sensor by comparing the remaining battery level with a preset threshold value.

[0088] According to one embodiment, the operation of displaying the remaining battery level may include an operation of blinking a green LED (e.g., 271-2 of FIG. 2) included in the PPG sensor when the remaining battery level is equal to or greater than the threshold value. When the remaining battery level is equal to or less than the threshold value, the operation may include blinking a red LED (e.g., 271-3 of FIG. 2) included in the PPG sensor.

[0089] In one embodiment, the number of flashes of the light emitting portion may be based on the remaining battery level.

[0090] In one embodiment, the operation of blinking the green LED may include an operation of blinking the green LED a number of times corresponding to the remaining battery level when the remaining battery level is equal to or greater than the threshold value. The operation of blinking the red LED may include an operation of blinking the red LED a number of times equal to the remaining battery level minus 1 when the remaining battery level is less than the threshold value.

[0091] In one embodiment, the remaining battery level may be collected at a preset cycle.

[0092] A ring electronic device according to one embodiment (e.g., electronic device 102 of FIG. 1, ring electronic device 200 of FIG. 2) may include a wireless communication circuit (e.g., wireless communication circuit 210 of FIG. 2) configured to transmit and receive wireless signals. The ring electronic device may include a processor (e.g., processor 220 of FIG. 2) operatively connected to the wireless communication circuit. The ring electronic device may include a memory (e.g., memory 230 of FIG. 2) storing instructions. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor, may cause the ring electronic device to monitor a wearing state of the ring electronic device. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor, may cause the ring electronic device to check a remaining battery level of the ring electronic device when the wearing state has changed. The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor, may cause the ring electronic device to display the remaining battery level by adaptively blinking a light emitting unit (e.g., light emitting unit (271) of FIG. 2) included in a PPG sensor (e.g., PPG sensor (270) of FIG. 2) of the ring electronic device.

[0093] In one embodiment, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor, may cause the ring electronic device to adaptively blink a light emitting element included in the PPG sensor by comparing the remaining battery level with a preset threshold value.

[0094] In one embodiment, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor, may cause the ring electronic device to blink a green LED (e.g., 271-2 of FIG. 2) included in the PPG sensor when the remaining battery level is above the threshold value. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor, may cause the ring electronic device to blink a red LED (e.g., 271-3 of FIG. 2) included in the PPG sensor when the remaining battery level is below the threshold value.

[0095] In one embodiment, the number of flashes of the light emitting portion may be based on the remaining battery level.

[0096] In one embodiment, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor, may cause the ring electronic device to blink the green LED a number of times corresponding to the remaining battery level when the remaining battery level is equal to or greater than the threshold value. The instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor, may cause the ring electronic device to blink the red LED a number of times equal to the remaining battery level minus one when the remaining battery level is less than the threshold value.

[0097] In one embodiment, the remaining battery level may be collected at a preset cycle.

[0098] According to one embodiment, the instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor, may cause the ring electronic device to monitor a wearing state of the ring electronic device based on shake information of the ring electronic device.

[0099]

[0100] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, wearable devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0101] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0102] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0103] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., built-in memory or external memory) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one instruction called up. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' only means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain a signal (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and this term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently and cases where it is stored temporarily in the storage medium.

[0104] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in the present document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0105] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. An operation for monitoring the wearing status of a ring electronic device (102; 200); When the above wearing state is changed, an operation of checking the remaining battery level of the ring electronic device (102; 200); and An operation of displaying the remaining battery level by adaptively blinking the light emitting part (271) included in the PPG sensor (270) of the ring electronic device (102; 200). A method of operating a ring electronic device (102; 200), comprising:

2. In paragraph 1, The action of displaying the remaining battery level is as follows: An operation of adaptively blinking the light emitting unit (271) included in the PPG sensor (270) by comparing the preset threshold value with the remaining battery level. A method of operating a ring electronic device (102; 200), comprising:

3. In either of paragraphs 1 and 2, The action of displaying the remaining battery level is as follows: When the remaining battery level is above the threshold value, the operation of blinking the green LED (271-2) included in the PPG sensor (270); and When the remaining battery level is below the threshold value, the red LED (271-3) included in the PPG sensor (270) is blinked. A method of operating a ring electronic device (102; 200), comprising:

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The number of flashes of the above light emitting part (271) is: Based on the remaining battery level above, Method of operating a ring electronic device (102; 200).

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The action of flashing the above green LED (271-2) is If the remaining battery level is greater than or equal to the threshold value, the operation of flashing the green LED (271-2) a number of times corresponding to the remaining battery level is included. The action of flashing the above red LED (271-3) is An operating method of a ring electronic device (102; 200), comprising an operation of blinking the red LED (271-3) a number of times equal to the remaining battery level minus 1, when the remaining battery level is below the threshold value.

6. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 5, The remaining battery level is as follows: It is collected according to a preset cycle, Method of operating a ring electronic device (102; 200).

7. Operation of monitoring shaking information of ring electronic device (102; 200) When shaking of the ring electronic device (102; 200) is detected, an operation of checking the remaining battery level of the ring electronic device (102; 200); and An operation of displaying the remaining battery level by adaptively blinking the light emitting part (271) included in the PPG sensor (270) of the ring electronic device (102; 200). A method of operating a ring electronic device (102; 200), comprising:

8. In the ring electronic device (102; 200), A wireless communication circuit (210) configured to transmit and receive wireless signals; A processor (220) operatively connected to the wireless communication circuit (210); and Memory for storing instructions (230) Including, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor (220), cause the ring electronic device (102; 200) to: Monitor the wearing status of the ring electronic device, If the above wearing status changes, check the remaining battery level of the ring electronic device, By adaptively blinking the light emitting part (271) included in the PPG sensor (270) of the above ring electronic device, the remaining battery level is displayed. Ring electronic device (102; 200).

9. In paragraph 8, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor (220), cause the ring electronic device (102; 200) to: By comparing the preset threshold value with the remaining battery level, the light emitting unit (271) included in the PPG sensor (270) is adaptively blinked. Ring electronic device (102; 200).

10. In either of paragraphs 8 and 9, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor (220), cause the ring electronic device (102; 200) to: When the remaining battery level is above the threshold value, the green LED (271-2) included in the PPG sensor (270) blinks, When the remaining battery level is below the threshold value, the red LED (271-3) included in the PPG sensor (270) is caused to blink. Ring electronic device (102; 200).

11. In any one of paragraphs 8 to 10, The number of flashes of the above light emitting part (271) is: Based on the remaining battery level above, Ring electronic device (102; 200).

12. In any one of paragraphs 8 to 11, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor (220), cause the ring electronic device (102; 200) to: If the remaining battery level is higher than the threshold value, the green LED (271-2) blinks a number of times corresponding to the remaining battery level, If the remaining battery level is below the threshold value, the red LED (271-3) is caused to blink a number of times equal to the number of times that 1 is subtracted from the remaining battery level. Ring electronic device (102; 200).

13. In any one of paragraphs 8 to 12, The remaining battery level is as follows: It is collected according to a preset cycle, Ring electronic device (102; 200).

14. In any one of paragraphs 8 to 13, The above instructions, when individually or collectively executed by the processor (220), cause the ring electronic device (102; 200) to: A ring electronic device (102; 200) that monitors the wearing state of the ring electronic device based on shaking information of the ring electronic device (102; 200).

Images